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Archive Reference / Library Class No.D8760/F/FEG/1/1/15
Former ReferenceD3311/28/14
TitleLetter from Sir John Franklin to his daughter Eleanor Isabella Franklin, during his journey north on the last Arctic expedition, being the last letter he wrote to her
Date6 Jul 1845
DescriptionExpects she and her mother have been thinking of him and his companions.  Describes divine services held that day, including details of the sermons.  Describes a visit to an eskimo station; their work of seal hunting, their appearance and clothing and their visit to his cabin.  Refers to the work of a Danish clergyman and of the carpenter currently in charge of the station.  Gives news about the extent of the sea ice.  Prays for God's blessing on the expedition.  Has asked her mother not to become anxious if they've not returned by the expected date; they have sufficient stores for a second winter. Similarly asks her not to be anxious.  Hopes to return soon after Mr Gell has established himself in England thus enabling a marriage. Expects that he will not remain long in Van Diemen's Land [now Tasmania]: advises that he should not accept the post of First Warden.  Refers her to a letter sent to her mother which gives news of his activities.
Extent1 sheet
LevelItem
RepositoryDerbyshire Record Office
Full Catalogue ListClick here to view a full list for this collection
SenderJohn Franklin
Sender LocationWhale Fish Island near Disco [Greenland]
RecipientEleanor Isabella Franklin
Recipient LocationNo address
Archive CreatorEleanor Isabella Franklin, later Eleanor Gell (1824-1860)
Gell family of Hopton Hall, Wirksworth
FormatDocument
TermInuit
Ethnic groups
Colonialism
British Empire
Letters (documents)
Geographical exploration
Geographical exploration
Arctic regions
Explorers
Indigenous populations
Franklin Expedition (1845)
Places
Place (click for further details)Type
Australia 
Tasmania 
GreenlandCountry
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